Parable of the Ten Virgins

Matthew 25:1–13 NIV

1 “At that time the kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2 Five of them were foolish and five were wise. 3 The foolish ones took their lamps but did not take any oil with them. 4 The wise ones, however, took oil in jars along with their lamps. 5 The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep. 6 “At midnight the cry rang out: ‘Here’s the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!’ 7 “Then all the virgins woke up and trimmed their lamps. 8 The foolish ones said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil; our lamps are going out.’ 9 “ ‘No,’ they replied, ‘there may not be enough for both us and you. Instead, go to those who sell oil and buy some for yourselves.’ 10 “But while they were on their way to buy the oil, the bridegroom arrived. The virgins who were ready went in with him to the wedding banquet. And the door was shut. 11 “Later the others also came. ‘Lord, Lord,’ they said, ‘open the door for us!’ 12 “But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I don’t know you.’ 13 “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour.

Opening Prayer

Introduction:

Matthew 25:1-13 is known as the parable of the ten virgins. This parable speaks to the importance of being prepared for Christ's return. In this passage, Jesus describes ten virgins who were waiting for the bridegroom to arrive. Five of them were wise and had oil in their lamps, while the other five were foolish and did not have enough oil. The foolish virgins went to buy more oil, and while they were gone, the bridegroom arrived, and the wise virgins went into the wedding feast with him. When the foolish virgins returned, they were not allowed in.

Read Matthew 25:1-13

What stands out to you about this passage?

2. What do you think Jesus is trying to teach through this parable?

2. Who are the ten virgins?

1. What does their role in the parable represent?

2. What is the significance of the oil in their lamps?

3. What does it mean to keep watch?

1. How can we keep watch in our own lives?

2. What are some things that distract us from keeping watch?

4. What is the difference between the wise and foolish virgins?

1. What does their response to the bridegroom's delay say about their character?

2. How does this apply to our own lives?

5. What is the meaning of the bridegroom's arrival?

1. What does it symbolize?

2. Why is it important to be ready for his arrival?

6. What is the significance of the bridegroom's statement in verse 13, "Therefore, keep watch, because you do not know the day or the hour."

1. Why is it important to keep watch?

2. How can we keep watch in our own lives?

7. What does this parable teach us about the importance of being prepared for Christ's return?

1. How can we make sure we are ready?

2. What steps can we take to ensure that we are living in a way that honors God and reflects our readiness for Christ's return?

Conclusion:

Matthew 25:1-13 is a powerful reminder of the importance of being prepared for Christ's return. We must keep watch in our lives, staying alert and focused on the things of God. We must be diligent in our faith, ensuring that we are ready for Christ's return, whenever it may be. May we all strive to live our lives in a way that reflects our readiness for Christ's return and our commitment to following him.

Closing Prayer